Greenland Expedition
Embark on an unforgettable expedition.
We’re still lacking words to describe this experience - one word: mind-blowing! And before we continue, the video below will say far more than we could ever do.
Even today it still feels like a dream, almost unreal looking back on it. Our beautiful wooden schooner Ópal turned into a proper home. 8 days navigating through the icy arctic waters, together with an amazing group of creatives, completely immersing into our own microcosmos. No rush, no hustle and bustle from the outside world - 8 days off grid, no cell phone connecting, no precious lifetime wasted on social media or on emails - simply reconnecting to nature and the elements, disconnected from all other stuff. Feeling the arctic breeze, breathing the freshest air that you will ever experience, soaking in the sun, embracing the raindrops falling down and listening to sounds of icebergs passing by, rumbling glaciers and the constant sound of moving wood. All while you are in THE MOST exciting and beautiful landscape you will ever be in, and trust me, we have seen a lot by now... And although this sounds like a full on marketing phrase - it’s a true once in a lifetime opportunity with Tashi and me!
A photo expedition through Scoresby Sound - the largest and one of the most remote fjords on earth with dramatic mountain peaks, icebergs and the possibility of seeing northern lights and polar bears. 8 amazing days exploring the fjord, sailing, hiking and visiting the remote settlement of Ittoqqortoormiit with endless photo opportunities along our route! Flights are included from Reykjavik to Greenland where we will be landing on the rugged east coast of with our ship Ópal awaiting for us. We’ll have the schooner entirely for ourselves (10 guests + 4 crew) making sure that we are a private and small group in this incredible place! Does this sound like something you’d be interested in?
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In a nutshell:
An epic sail around on a small boat.
Feel like a pirate, climbing the mast, looking out for icebergs.
Hike on the dramatic East Coast and visit remote Greenlandic settlements .
Enjoy the onboard Hot-tub and the fireplace inside.
Disconnect from the world as we will have no phone signal.
Maximum 12 people incl. Natascha and me + 4 people crew.
Maybe spot Polar Bears (fingers crossed for that!) and Whale watching.
Fill up endless memory cards and memories!
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What's included:
Flights Reykjavík – Greenland – Reykjavík.
Breakfast, lunch, dinner all days (vegetarian / vegan options available).
Tea, coffee and snacks all day long.
All activities, zodiac tours, transportation and hiking excursions, guiding.
Photography tips, Q & A rounds, loads of fun and talk.
Shared twin cabin with another participant with shared facilities.
All bedding, etc, Towels, Expedition Overalls.
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Not included:
Accommodation outside the tour dates (one night before and after the trip recommended).
Airfare to and from Iceland from your country of origin.
Visas or Individual travel insurance.
Alcoholic and extra beverages.
MORE TRIP DETAILS.
Ópal is a wooden schooner from 1951 built for expeditions. She has lots of space on the deck, you can climb out on the bow or the mast or just sit down and enjoy the passing views. Inside there is a cozy saloon to come together, talk and relax in front of a fireplace or wind down in one of the six twin cabins. There are two shared bathrooms and two showers. But the best thing awaits outside - a hot tub! Waiting for you on the deck to warm up after you have done the Arctic plunge!
As with all sailing boats, space inside is limited, so: fewer things, fewer thoughts, more space to breath and be! The boat is not a catwalk - don’t bring too much stuff with you. Warm and windproof overalls are provided and if you are really feeling cold outside, it is best to wear those. Also we will make sure that the group works well together, as we’ll be cozied up together for a week.
When sailing through the unspoiled arctic landscape - or when ashore - we will come across some of Greenland’s sensational wildlife in their natural habitat. Although rare, polar bears, have been spotted as they curiously observe our passing. Other animals are more common, especially snow hares, seals and muskoxen. Regardless of whether hiking in the breathtaking arctic environment or onboard the vessel sailing through the ice is a feeling that cannot be described and will be something you will never forget. Last but not least, we will visit Ittoqqortoormiit, one of the most isolated villages on the western hemisphere. This home of roughly 450 hardy inhabitants is truly awe-inspiring, as it is possible to experience the historical and cultural roots of this traditional Inuit community.
FAQs
Do I need a sleeping bag or towels?
No, warm bedding, covers, blankets and a set of towels is provided.
Is there phone or internet access?
Cell phone signal is only available at the airport in Constable Point and in Ittoqqortoormiit (don’t expect to have roaming there). If urgent, the ship has satellite phones.
Seasickness?
Since it’s a fjord, the sea is usually calm and chances are low to get seasick. However, if you tend to suffer from sea sickness, the best advice is to take sea sickness precautions. If you haven’t been to sea before, it’s better to take preventative measures, like pills.
Electricity?
You will be able to charge all your items. As there are a lot of photographers on board, make sure to mark your batteries and chargers with your initials. This way we can keep our gear separate. The electric sockets on board are European.
Do I need t be a photographer?
Absolutely not! It is not a pure photography workshop. Of course we will talk about photography related topics and share skills but in first place it is all about the experience to sail in the Arctic. And also: this place is so beautiful so you can't really take a bad photo.
Essentials
Important: No hardcover luggages! Duffel bags work best.
All things mandatory like passport, medication, etc.
Sunglasses + Sun-protection
Warm clothes incl. buff, gloves, hat and thermal underwear
Light wool sweater or fleece
Shell Jacket / Rain jacket with hood
Warm Jacket
Hiking Boots
Small backpack for hikes
Comfy clothes for indoors, slippers for indoors
Swimwear
Toothbrush
Biodegradable toiletries
Reusable waterbottle
